Getting Ready for Class

FAQs

How do I prepare for Microsoft’s transition to the new version of Microsoft Teams?

In March 2024, Microsoft will introduce a new Teams client for users still on the classic version. This may require users to install the new Teams client. For more information, please visit Microsoft’s website for updates and detailed information.

What video conferencing tool does Blackbaud University use for Virtual Instructor-Led classes?  

Prepare for a new class experience. In February of 2024, Blackbaud University will transition from WebEx to Microsoft Teams for our virtual instructor-led courses. For the best experience, we recommend downloading the Microsoft Teams application (you can also join from supported browsers). Please note that the process of launching your Blackbaud University class will remain the same. For more information on preparing for class, please review the FAQs below or reference this Knowledgebase article. 

 

How do I prepare ahead of time for a virtual instructor-led class?

Prepare Microsoft Teams. Blackbaud University uses Microsoft Teams for our virtual classes. For the best experience, we recommend downloading the Microsoft Teams application (you can also join from supported browsers). Please ensure that you have speakers or a phone connection to Microsoft Teams audio.

Prepare to join your student sample product environment. Many classes include access to student sample product environments. Please check that you are using a computer that meets Blackbaud’s System Requirements. Your instructor will detail the solution-specific steps to connect to your sample environment before class begins.

For Raiser’s Edge and Financial Edge Database View classes, Citrix Workspace App is required to access the student sample environment. Please confirm that Citrix is installed before class. IT assistance from your organization may be required to complete installation. Follow these instructions to install Citrix prior to class.

NOTE: When installing Citrix, do not click “Add Account” when prompted by the installer; just click Finish when prompted to complete installation.

For Microsoft Product Courses, you must provide your own environment if you wish to participate in the hands-on activities. Blackbaud University does not provide a sample environment for these courses. To participate in class, you must have one of the following Microsoft Office versions:

  • Microsoft Office 2016

  • Microsoft Office 2019

  • Microsoft Office 2021

  • Microsoft 365

 

Can I access Course Materials before class?

Yes! Course Materials are designed to supplement the instruction and demonstrations you’ll see in your virtual instructor-led class, with the goal of active participation and note-taking in mind. Use this resource however you’d like, whether to highlight impactful takeaways, write down answers to activities, or make note of whatever you think will be useful later. You can access your class handout before, during, or after class.

  1. Go to https://learn.blackbaud.com.

  2. Click My Activities.

  3. Select the Course Title.

  4. Select the CONTENT tab.

  5. Select the title of the file to download.

How do I join my virtual instructor-led class?

Your virtual instructor-led class is available to join up to 30 minutes before scheduled start time. Please join your class as early as possible to be ready for class.

You can launch your class directly from BlackbaudU Campus:

  1. Go to https://learn.blackbaud.com.

  2. Locate your course under the My Calendar section of the homepage.

  3. Select the Course Title.

  4. Click the down arrow to the right of the printer icon to the right of the course name.

  5. Select Join the Webinar.

When do Blackbaud University virtual instructor-led courses start?

Blackbaud University virtual instructor-led courses begin promptly at the time listed when you enroll. All times listed are U.S. Eastern Time. Please plan to join as early as possible to be ready for class.

If I arrive early to a virtual instructor-led class and I’m all set up, do I have to wait at my computer for the start of class?

No! If you have completed setup and are ready for class, you can feel free to do other things before class starts. Feel free to answer email, get a snack, or watch fun cat videos on YouTube. Just be sure to return for the class start time. We appreciate your commitment to being ready for your Blackbaud University class.

What is the virtual instructor-led class attendance policy?

Participants must be present and active in the session for at least 90% of the class to receive credit. See our Training Policies page.

We’ve listed answers to common questions about instructor-led online events. Check the sidebar under Training Help for more frequently asked questions, like signing up for courses, becoming Blackbaud Certified®, and more! Don’t see your question? Select Knowledgebase from the Support menu, enter your question, and click Ask.

Questions?

You can chat with us Tuesday-Friday, 8:30-10:00 AM and 10:30-5:00 PM Eastern Time, or submit a Blackbaud University Support Ticket and we will get back to you within 1 business day.

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